How to Travel on a Budget While Studying Abroad

21 September 2025

Studying abroad is an incredible experience—new cultures, new people, and new adventures! But let’s be real: It can get expensive, especially if you're eager to travel while you're at it.

The good news? You don’t have to drain your savings to explore new places. With the right strategies, you can travel on a budget while studying abroad and still have an amazing time! Let’s break it down, step by step.

1. Plan Ahead and Be Flexible

Book in Advance (When Possible!)

One golden rule of budget travel: the earlier you book, the cheaper it usually is. Whether it's flights, train tickets, or accommodations, prices tend to rise the closer you get to your travel dates.

But sometimes, last-minute deals pop up too. If you have flexible plans, take advantage of discounts that airlines and hostels offer to fill empty spots.

Be Open with Your Destination & Dates

Instead of setting your heart on a specific place, why not choose where to go based on the best deals available? Use platforms like:

- Skyscanner (Search for “Everywhere” option)
- Google Flights (Check price trends and alerts)
- Hopper (Predicts best booking times)

Flexibility can save you hundreds of dollars!

2. Travel Like a Local

Use Budget Airlines & Student Discounts

Many budget airlines, such as Ryanair, EasyJet, and AirAsia, cater to students and travelers looking for cheap flights.

But beware—low-cost airlines often charge extra for baggage and seat selection. Stick with a carry-on and pack light to avoid sneaky fees.

Also, check for student discounts! Websites like ISIC (International Student Identity Card) and StudentUniverse offer flight deals exclusively for students.

Take Buses & Trains Instead of Flying

Flying isn’t always the cheapest option. If you’re in Europe or Asia, buses and trains can be way more affordable. Try:

- FlixBus (Europe-wide budget buses)
- Eurail Pass (Discounted train travel across Europe)
- RedBus (Budget travel across Asia)

Sometimes, an overnight bus or train can also save you the cost of a night at a hotel!

3. Stay Smart with Accommodation

Hostels & Budget Hotels

Staying in hostels is a classic student travel hack. Not only do you save money, but you meet like-minded travelers, which can make your trip even more fun.

Websites like Hostelworld and Booking.com have plenty of cheap stays with reviews so you can pick the best option.

If you prefer more privacy but still want affordable stays, budget hotels and capsule hotels (popular in Asia) are great alternatives.

Try Couchsurfing & House Sitting

For those who don’t mind a little adventure, Couchsurfing lets you stay with locals for free! It’s an awesome way to make connections and get insider travel tips.

House and pet sitting platforms like TrustedHousesitters also let you stay in someone’s home for free in exchange for watching their pets.

Rent Student-Friendly Airbnb Stays

If you're traveling in a group, renting an Airbnb can sometimes be cheaper than multiple hostel beds. Plus, you get access to a kitchen, which helps you save money on food.

4. Eat on a Budget Without Missing Out

Cook Your Own Meals

Eating out all the time can burn a hole in your wallet fast. If your accommodation has a kitchen, take advantage of it! A quick supermarket run for pasta and veggies can cost a fraction of a restaurant meal.

Street Food & Local Markets

Street food is not just budget-friendly, but it’s also one of the best ways to experience the local culture! Many countries have incredible street food scenes—think tacos in Mexico, pad Thai in Thailand, or crepes in France—all at a fraction of restaurant prices.

Markets are another hidden gem for budget travelers. Fresh produce, local snacks, and ready-to-eat meals are often much cheaper than eating in a touristy café.

Take Advantage of Student Deals & Free Breakfasts

Many hostels and budget hotels offer free breakfast. Load up in the morning and you'll need less food throughout the day.

Also, some cafes and restaurants in student-heavy areas offer student discounts—just flash your student ID!

5. Maximize Free & Cheap Activities

Free Walking Tours

Almost every major city has free walking tours. These are a fantastic way to explore the area with a local guide, learn about history and culture, and meet fellow travelers. Just remember to tip the guide!

Use City Passes & Discount Cards

Some cities have city passes that bundle public transport and popular attractions at a discount. Always check if it's worth it for what you plan to see!

Websites like GetYourGuide and Klook often have student discounts on activities and experiences.

Parks, Museums & Hidden Spots

Many museums have free entry on certain days—check schedules before you go! Public parks, beaches, and hiking trails also offer incredible experiences at zero cost.

6. Work & Travel (If Possible)

Look for Part-Time Jobs or Internships

Some student visas allow you to work part-time. A simple job as a barista, tutor, or tour guide can help fund your travels.

Freelancing or Remote Work

If working locally isn't an option, consider online gigs like writing, graphic design, or social media management. Platforms like Fiverr and Upwork allow you to earn money from anywhere!

7. Travel in a Group for Extra Savings

Traveling with friends means splitting costs—from accommodation and groceries to taxis and group discounts on activities.

If you don’t have a travel buddy, join Facebook groups for students in your study-abroad city. You might find like-minded travelers looking for a budget-friendly adventure, too!

8. Smart Packing Saves You Money

Packing efficiently means avoiding extra costs, like baggage fees or buying things you forgot. A few budget travel essentials include:

- Reusable water bottle (Saves on bottled water)
- Power bank (So you don’t have to buy expensive airport chargers)
- Student ID (For discounts everywhere!)
- Hostel lock (Keeps your valuables safe)

Little things like these can make a big difference in saving money while traveling.

Final Thoughts

Traveling on a budget while studying abroad is totally possible—you just have to be smart about it!

Plan ahead, take advantage of student discounts, travel light, and explore places like a local. Keep an open mind, look for free experiences, and remember: adventure isn’t about how much you spend, but the memories you make.

So pack your bags and start exploring... without breaking the bank!